Nik Nejad: The Fashion Auteur

Nik Nejad has been receiving rave reviews for his work in the exhibition Versions of Her, which was his first solo endeavor.

He is a complex artist, working with multiple mediums including short films, paintings, and video installations. AMDmode team was able to reveal some of the layers of this boyishly handsome artist.

Do you consider fashion to be one of your art mediums?

No, fashion is a source of inspiration for me. I appreciate the conceptual and experimental sides of fashion, which have been explored by the likes of Viktor & Rolf, Iris Van Herpen, and the late Alexander McQueen, combining the fashion and art.

What are the fashion influences on your art?

Fashion is very ritualistic, and it defines the ways we, as a society, connect visually, influencing and reinforcing the societal structures. The expressions of femininity in the modern society fascinate me because of the patriarchy of the modern society.

What new meaning your artwork takes now that it is displayed at Harvey Nichols, combining it with fashion?

My work is minimalistic and de-feminized representation of women. The combination of the raw paintings with the luxurious atmosphere in the Harvey Nichols jewelry department produces quite bizarre results.

In the minimal gallery settings, the experience changes substantially, as the settings change the artwork and its perceptions. I believe my work is alive, with individuality and personality.

At Harvey Nichols, consumerist ambiance of the space and the attitudes of the shoppers heighten the contemplative nature of the paintings, creating a surreal feeling.

How society influences you as an artist?

My environment has definitely affected my personality, and it also affects my work. My surroundings differentiate my work, through my thoughts and dreams. The opinions of people also guide my artwork on some level.

What do you think about the ‘painter jeans’?

I work in my painter jeans when I am covered with paint, but I don’t want that once I am done. I feel that the people wearing ‘painter jeans’ don’t look ‘artsy’, but rather messy. It’s not a bad thing, though.